Like the search for the elusive better mouse trap, Anne Arundel County politicians continue to look for a better way to select the school board.
For about three decades, a nominating convention has met annually to vote on school board recommendations for the governor, who makes the final choice. But faith in that process has eroded lately because the governor has routinely ignored the convention's wishes and chosen candidates favored by the county executive, and also because conservative religious coalitions have taken over some sessions.
This year, legislators are considering four bills aimed at restoring credibility to the process. Delegates Joan Cadden, Janet Greenip and Marsha G. Perry are sponsoring a bill to directly elect the school board. Boards are elected in 10 Maryland counties, including in Howard and Montgomery, which have some of the best schools in the state. Election would make the board more accountable, but it also would inject an unhealthy dose of politics into public education and doesn't make sense unless the board is also given taxing authority.
Del. Michael Busch is sponsoring a bill in which a commission representing various groups and geographic areas would make recommendations to the governor. This bill, however, doesn't correct the fundamental flaw of the current system, which is that the governor does not know local needs.
We favor giving the county executive the authority to elect the school board, and holding him accountable for the quality of its membership. Two bills being considered would give the executive this power. In one version, sponsored by Del. Robert C. Baldwin, the County Council would nominate candidates to the convention, which would then send its recommendations to the county executive, who would make the final choice. Sen. Philip Jimeno has a bill more to the liking of County Executive John G. Gary in which the executive would appoint the school board, but the council could veto appointments or recall board members.
We oppose the recall provision, which would turn board members into political scapegoats. But we favor granting the executive the power to select the school board, subject to confirmation by the council. This method may not be perfect, but at least it would make the executive accountable for decisions he long has been making.